Haji's nomination to head NIS gets support from civil groups

EBDA chairman Ahmed Yare (left), Sheikh Mohamed and secretary-general Omar Ibrahim express their support for Noordin Haji. [ Jenipher Wachie, Standard]

The nomination of Noordin Haji by President William Ruto as the Director-General of the National Intelligence Service (NIS) has received a backing from various groups in Nairobi.

The latest group to express their support is the Eastleigh Business District Association (EBDA), which said Haji was the right choice for the job.

The Easteleigh traders say since Haji was appointed as Director of Public Prosecution, he has proven to be effective.

"Haji's progressive review of policies and guidelines in the prosecution sector has disrupted the outdated and corrupt system of the past, earning him adversaries amongst those who benefited from it," said EBDA chairman Ahmed Yare.

Alliance for Democracy, Rule of Law and Security Kenya Chairman David Odhiambo, Owallo Ochieng and Caleb Wanga. [Jenipher Wachie, Standard]

He added: "He has actively collaborated with human rights groups and community-based organisations to advocate human rights, combated extrajudicial killings, championed the rights of women and marginalised groups and resisted injustice."

While Alliance for Democracy, Rule of Law and Security Kenya said Haji has managed to balance some of the cross cutting interests in the country.

"We are confident that President Ruto had the wisdom to nominate Haji based on his capabilities to serve," David Odhiambo, the group's Chairman stated.

Similarly, the Consortium of Grassroots Civil Society Organisations threw their weight back Haji's nomination.

The organisation said DPP during his two decades of public service demonstrated dedication, diligence and patriotism.

[Additional reporting by Wesley Koech]